The Caramel Apple Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, blending the sweet, warm flavors of caramel and apple with the boldness of whiskey. This cocktail evokes the cozy, comforting flavors of autumn, making it the perfect drink to enjoy during the cooler months or as a festive option for a fall gathering. The combination of rich caramel, tart apple, and the complex profile of bourbon or rye whiskey offers a drink that is both smooth and flavorful, with just the right balance of sweetness and depth. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, relaxing after a long day, or celebrating a special occasion, the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned will become a new favorite, offering a sweet and indulgent take on a classic drink. With its cozy, nostalgic flavors, it’s the ideal cocktail for those who enjoy the comforting tastes of caramel and apple, along with the timeless sophistication of an Old Fashioned.
Ingredients
To create the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey. Bourbon works best for its smooth and sweet notes, while rye adds a slightly spicier kick.
- ½ ounce of caramel syrup or caramel liqueur to add that rich, buttery caramel flavor that will blend beautifully with the whiskey.
- ½ ounce of apple cider or apple juice for a fruity, tart contrast to the sweetness of the caramel. Apple cider adds a more complex, spiced flavor.
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to provide depth and balance to the drink’s sweetness.
- Ice cubes to chill the cocktail and enhance its smooth texture.
Optional garnishes include a thin apple slice or an apple wedge for a decorative touch, a cinnamon stick for a subtle spiced aroma, or a caramel drizzle to add visual appeal and extra sweetness.
Preparation
Step 1: Begin by preparing your Old Fashioned glass. You can chill the glass with ice or place it in the freezer to cool it down before pouring in the cocktail.
Step 2: In the Old Fashioned glass, combine 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey, ½ ounce of caramel syrup (or caramel liqueur), and ½ ounce of apple cider or apple juice. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to balance the flavors and add a touch of complexity.
Step 3: Add a few ice cubes to the glass. You can use larger ice cubes to prevent excessive dilution.
Step 4: Stir the ingredients gently with a bar spoon or stirrer for about 20-30 seconds to properly mix the flavors and chill the drink.
Step 5: Garnish the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned with a thin apple slice or wedge. For an extra autumnal touch, add a cinnamon stick to the glass, or drizzle some caramel syrup along the rim for a beautiful and indulgent finish.
Variation
- Caramel Apple Old Fashioned with Spiced Rum: Swap the bourbon or rye whiskey for spiced rum to introduce a deeper, more aromatic spiced profile to the cocktail. The rum will complement the caramel and apple flavors in a unique way.
- Frozen Caramel Apple Old Fashioned: Blend the ingredients with ice for a frozen version of the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned. This variation offers a refreshing, slushy texture while retaining the same warm, comforting flavors.
- Apple Pie Old Fashioned: For an apple pie-inspired twist, add a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg along with the apple cider. This will enhance the fall flavors and create a drink that tastes like the perfect blend of apple pie and Old Fashioned.
- Smoky Caramel Apple Old Fashioned: Use smoked bourbon or add a touch of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the caramel and the tart apple. This gives the drink a complex, rustic flavor.
Cooking Notes
For the best Caramel Apple Old Fashioned, it’s important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The caramel syrup or caramel liqueur should have a rich, smooth flavor that doesn’t overpower the whiskey. If using apple cider, choose a brand that has a natural, tart apple taste to provide balance to the drink’s sweetness. When stirring the cocktail, be sure to do so gently to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed but not overly diluted by the ice. The bitters should be added in moderation to provide depth and enhance the other flavors without taking over the drink. For the perfect garnish, choose fresh apples that are firm and crisp, as they will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cocktail.
Serving Suggestions
The Caramel Apple Old Fashioned is a fantastic drink to serve as a fall cocktail or at a seasonal gathering. It pairs wonderfully with autumn-inspired foods, including roasted meats, caramelized vegetables, or dishes with warm, spiced flavors. For a cozy night in, enjoy the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned with a slice of apple pie, cinnamon rolls, or a warm caramel cake. The rich caramel and apple flavors also pair beautifully with creamy cheeses, such as brie or camembert, or nuts like pecans and almonds. If you’re serving the drink at a party or gathering, it’s a great option to offer alongside a charcuterie board filled with seasonal fruits, nuts, and savory snacks. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned a versatile cocktail to complement a variety of dishes.
Tips
- If you don’t have caramel syrup, you can use homemade caramel sauce or caramel liqueur for the same rich, sweet flavor.
- For a more intense apple flavor, try using apple brandy or apple liqueur in place of apple cider or juice.
- To add more depth, experiment with flavored bitters, such as orange or cinnamon bitters, to enhance the overall profile of the drink.
- Make sure the ice you use is large enough to chill the drink without diluting it too quickly. Larger ice cubes are ideal for this cocktail.
- For an even sweeter touch, drizzle extra caramel syrup around the inside of the glass before adding the drink. This creates a visually appealing swirl and enhances the caramel flavor.
- For a richer experience, you can substitute heavy cream for the apple cider, creating a creamy version of the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned that feels more like a dessert.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: None
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 10mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned in advance?
A: It’s best to prepare the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned fresh to ensure the flavors are perfectly balanced and the drink stays chilled. However, you can pre-mix the liquid ingredients and store them in the refrigerator. Add the ice and garnish right before serving.
Q: Can I use something other than bourbon or rye whiskey?
A: Yes! You can experiment with other spirits like spiced rum or even a light brandy for a unique take on the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned. Each spirit will offer a different flavor profile that pairs nicely with caramel and apple.
Q: How do I store leftover caramel syrup or apple cider?
A: If you have leftover caramel syrup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Apple cider should also be refrigerated and can be used in other cocktails or desserts.
Q: How can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?
A: To make a non-alcoholic version, substitute the whiskey with apple juice or cider, and add a little more caramel syrup for extra sweetness. You can also add a splash of soda water for a refreshing fizz.
Conclusion
The Caramel Apple Old Fashioned is a perfect cocktail for those who enjoy the comforting flavors of caramel and apple, combined with the timeless appeal of the Old Fashioned. Its smooth, sweet, and slightly tart flavor profile makes it an ideal drink for autumn and fall gatherings, but it’s delicious enough to enjoy year-round. With just the right balance of whiskey, caramel, and apple, this cocktail is both sophisticated and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it as a special treat at a party or enjoying it by the fire, the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned will quickly become a favorite in your cocktail repertoire.
PrintCaramel Apple Old Fashioned
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
To create the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey. Bourbon works best for its smooth and sweet notes, while rye adds a slightly spicier kick.
- ½ ounce of caramel syrup or caramel liqueur to add that rich, buttery caramel flavor that will blend beautifully with the whiskey.
- ½ ounce of apple cider or apple juice for a fruity, tart contrast to the sweetness of the caramel. Apple cider adds a more complex, spiced flavor.
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to provide depth and balance to the drink’s sweetness.
- Ice cubes to chill the cocktail and enhance its smooth texture.
Optional garnishes include a thin apple slice or an apple wedge for a decorative touch, a cinnamon stick for a subtle spiced aroma, or a caramel drizzle to add visual appeal and extra sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1: Begin by preparing your Old Fashioned glass. You can chill the glass with ice or place it in the freezer to cool it down before pouring in the cocktail.
Step 2: In the Old Fashioned glass, combine 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey, ½ ounce of caramel syrup (or caramel liqueur), and ½ ounce of apple cider or apple juice. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to balance the flavors and add a touch of complexity.
Step 3: Add a few ice cubes to the glass. You can use larger ice cubes to prevent excessive dilution.
Step 4: Stir the ingredients gently with a bar spoon or stirrer for about 20-30 seconds to properly mix the flavors and chill the drink.
Step 5: Garnish the Caramel Apple Old Fashioned with a thin apple slice or wedge. For an extra autumnal touch, add a cinnamon stick to the glass, or drizzle some caramel syrup along the rim for a beautiful and indulgent finish.
Notes
For the best Caramel Apple Old Fashioned, it’s important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The caramel syrup or caramel liqueur should have a rich, smooth flavor that doesn’t overpower the whiskey. If using apple cider, choose a brand that has a natural, tart apple taste to provide balance to the drink’s sweetness. When stirring the cocktail, be sure to do so gently to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed but not overly diluted by the ice. The bitters should be added in moderation to provide depth and enhance the other flavors without taking over the drink. For the perfect garnish, choose fresh apples that are firm and crisp, as they will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cocktail.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Sodium: 10mg
- Protein: 0g